The stage lights are dimmed, but the spirit of Rochdale Theatre is still alive.

Despite the “hibernation” of the Lismore Theatre Company’s (LTC) next production, Educating Rita, the cast are still running their lines with each other –online.

LTC president Sharon Brodie said the show was due to open at the Goonellabah theatre two weeks ago until the LTC committee, cast and crew made the decision to postpone the show and the children’s pantomime Puss in Thongs due to be staged on April 22.

‘We were so disappointed,” Sharon said. “But the concern for our community, plus the thought of putting all that effort into playing to a handful of people, made the decision the right one.

“Educating Rita would have had to close mid-run anyway due to the increased Covid-19 restrictions.”

“Education Rita has gone into hibernation - the set is ready and the people who loaned us pieces for the show are allowing us to retain them.

Despite being offered ticket refunds, Sharon said many people who had already booked tickets to both shows had decided to keep their bookings for when they are rescheduled. 

“The actors, Elyse Knowles and Gray Wilson are now meeting weekly on-line to run lines and LTC’s technician Luke Kane is using this down time to test and tag all the electrical equipment in the theatre,” Sharon said.

“We are also considering doing online play readings for interested members and the committee is meeting via Zoom.

“While the theatre lights are dimmed, the company is also taking the opportunity to revisit many of the shows staged in recent years by posting photo montages on its Facebook page.”

“This year is also the 50th anniversary of LTC and although plans for some workshops may need to be amended, the company is committed to celebrating this milestone later in the year.”